What is a blindspot monitor?

A blindspot monitor warns the driver if another vehicle is positioned in their blindspot - that area over the driver's shoulder, often obscured by metalwork - usually by a visual or audible alert.

Active blindspot monitors can, in certain circumstances, take things further and tell the car to take evasive action in the event of a predicted danger.

How does a blindspot monitor work?

Much like adaptive cruise control (ACC), the car beams out radar waves in order to detect other vehicles in the driver’s blindspot. If one is detected, the car will alert the driver using a visual or audible signal - and some may even issue a haptic alert, by vibrating the steering wheel for instance.

Alerts will often be heightened if the driver has activated the indicator on the side of the hidden vehicle, suggesting they're about to move into danger.

Do I need it?

If you frequently travel on motorways, a blindspot monitor is a valuable piece of equipment and could save your life. Those who do most of their driving in town may still find it useful when spotting cyclists, however.